Pura Vida Experience

From the moment you arrive in San Jose, you’ll become a part of Costa Rica forever. Leave your mark on the lush, yet underprivileged countryside by building community infrastructure, protecting the environment, painting murals, and participating in cross-cultural seminars. You’ll find it impossible to forget Costa Rica’s natural beauty as you traverse the Pacific coast, hike through dense tropical rainforests, observe incredible wildlife, and much more on this overseas adventure travel to Costa Rica.

Adventure

Environment

The Journey

¡Hola! Welcome to Costa Rica!

1 Day

Our Costa Rica high school trip begins! Students have the option of flying to San José (SJO) via Miami (MIA) on a preselected group itinerary, or students can fly independently. For students flying via MIA, GoBeyond arranges for an airport representative to assist with the transfer. In some cases, this representative is one of the group leaders and flies with the students to the journey destination. In other cases, he/she is a local contact responsible for airport assistance but will not be on the flight to San José. After arrival in San José, students are met at the airport by GoBeyond’s professional staff and transferred to our comfortable and clean country B&B near the tranquil town of La Garita. First day activities include a fantastic Costa Rican welcome dinner, GoBeyond’s orientation, check-in, and icebreakers.

Itinerary Activities

La Carpio & Juan Sanchez Indigenous Site

1 Day

Students begin their service abroad program with a service orientation and walking tour of the San José “slum” of La Carpio. After this eye-opening introduction, students get right to work with the people of the community. While the needs of our partner, the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF), change from year to year, our projects often center on hands-on construction and infrastructure projects, as well as educational interactions with underprivileged children. In the afternoon, students bus to Quitirrisi indigenous village where they learn about indigenous culture while touring traditional grass huts, religious artifacts, and burial grounds. Students are offered the opportunity to juice sugar cane – tribal style – and participate in a traditional ceremony of blessing.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

4 Days

A critical component to our trip, students learn about and contribute to projects serving rural schools and family centers in southern Costa Rica. Although Costa Rica – by Central American standards – is a relatively wealthy country that spends a large part of its revenue on education, the schools out in the countryside are often underserved and don’t have finances to build classrooms, provide material or give English classes. Our work in the Rio Claro area helps provide cultural exchanges, promote reading, and upgrade physical infrastructure at these new CRHF project locations.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

Fatima, one of the CRHF’s most experienced La Carpio teachers, recently moved with her family to Rio Claro, a community right on the Panama border. Since she has been working for so many years in La Carpio, she was able to make a positive impact on the children and families in this new community and has created the Family Well Being Center. With the support of GoBeyond groups, she has created a space, made furniture and provided classes for the children all year long.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

CRHF’s other new center is located at the beach town of Uvita, where Gail Nystrom – CRHF’s Director – has assumed responsibility for the Family Well Being Center, Forjando Alas program. Introduced several years ago, the program aims to educate children who live in the beach community and, at the same time, to protect the children from falling prey to the drugs, trafficking, and prostitution that tends to be prevalent in the surrounding areas. GoBeyond students help to lead activities that strengthen their self esteem and academic skills.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

Students who select to lend their hands and hearts to this program need to be ready to help build, paint, draw, play, teach, offer comfort and stay flexible to change. Yet in the end, students venture on with a sense of pride for having helped some of the real people to whom Gail and the CRHF have devoted their lives. It’s all in the process of making the lives of others better, one day at a time, one person at a time.

Adventure Focus

Whitewater Rafting

4 Days

A highlight for many, students have an action packed day full of fun and excitement while rafting down one of the most pristine rivers in all of Costa Rica. Rapids range from class II to class IV on this scenic river, thus all ability levels – experienced and non-experienced rafters alike – are bound to have fun. When not navigating the rapids in the river, our veteran whitewater rafting guides fill the time with hilarious boat games, river jokes, and much more.

Adventure Focus

Discovering the Rainforest

(Cont.)

Traveling to more rustic regions of Costa Rica allows students to see even more unique wildlife. When on the road, it’s not uncommon to spot insects, birds, and mammals of all different shapes and sizes. GoBeyond Costa Rica is truly a journey for nature lovers. During their jaunt down the Pacific coast, students stay in more rustic-style accommodation such as open-air huts (mosquito nets and screens provided) and ecolodges/B&Bs in the rainforest, which offer ideal home bases for wildlife viewing.

Adventure Focus

Boat Tours & Snorkeling

(Cont.)

Students have a blast while exploring the national park at Playa Ballena. Students head offshore on a boat tour exploring caverns, spotting dolphins, and snorkeling with sea turtles. If they’re lucky, students may even see whales! After this exciting excursion and a healthy Costa Rican lunch, students readjust to land then prepare for their service days in the small southern community of Rio Claro.

Itinerary Activities

Indigenous Reservation & Hot Springs Visit

3 Days

On the scenic bus ride back to the Central Valley, students venture off-the-beaten-track and travel inland to visit indigenous reservations such as Rincon Ecologico Cultural Terraba. Our goal in visiting and working with the indigenous communities is to strengthen their cultural heritage by being students to the leaders and youth so that they can see how valuable their own culture is in a broader worldview. Thus, students spend ample time learning about their customs and way of life. Students also undergo small community service projects on behalf of the people. After this brief yet enlightening tour, students return to the Central Valley and settle into a beautiful ecolodge complete with natural hot springs. This tranquil and relaxing environment provides the perfect backdrop for GoBeyond’s closing program and activities.

Journey Focus

Discovering Costa Rican Culture & Giving Back

Interspersed through your time spent whitewater rafting, hiking through rainforests, and discovering the raw untouched beauty of the environment, you’ll spend 50 hours of our Costa Rica high school trip giving back to local communities in coordination with our service partner, Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation.

The Humanitarian Foundation works to improve the quality of life of the most vulnerable populations in Costa Rica. In operation over 30 years, the foundation now manages more than 50 projects throughout the country, with a focus on education, community development, health care and support services for women, at-risk youth and indigenous groups.

Get Our Free Online Brochure

Full of detailed information about our journeys, staff, and FAQs for you to access anytime

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

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I agree to receive periodic emails from GoBeyond including discount offers, newsletters, and program information.

“ Not only did I enjoy myself, establish lifelong friendships, and explore Costa Rica, but I also felt that I made an important contribution to the places I visited. I left New York with tears in my eyes, as a trip to Costa Rica meant limited contact with my friends and family and sacrificing the comforts of home, but in time I found that the fears and the worries that had plagued me were ill-founded. I was about to embark on a journey that would prove to be the most profound two weeks of my life. ”

Brighid G.Staten Island, NY

Chat With GoBeyond Alumni

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Closing Activities

1 Day

The last day is always so hard! Students say goodbye to their new friends at GoBeyond. Without fail, there’s a mix of emotions – there is excitement to return home; there’s sadness to leave. On the final day of the overseas adventure travel to Costa Rica, students are transferred to the San José airport by our professional staff, checked in, then travel on to their respective homes and families. Yet the journey continues for each individual in undefinable ways. The lessons we learn, the friends we make, and the personal growth we gain through the GoBeyond Costa Rica service abroad program shape our hearts and minds for many years to come.

By Ashlyn M.

Waterfall Slide!

Hola Amigos! Today we woke up a bit later and got to go to breakfast at a recreation center where…

Is Rico: (a) the Chocolate Squisher, (b) the Chicken Guy, or (c) an FBI Agent?

TripLogs

¡Hola! Welcome to Costa Rica!

1 Day

Our Costa Rica high school trip begins! Students have the option of flying to San José (SJO) via Miami (MIA) on a preselected group itinerary, or students can fly independently. For students flying via MIA, GoBeyond arranges for an airport representative to assist with the transfer. In some cases, this representative is one of the group leaders and flies with the students to the journey destination. In other cases, he/she is a local contact responsible for airport assistance but will not be on the flight to San José. After arrival in San José, students are met at the airport by GoBeyond’s professional staff and transferred to our comfortable and clean country B&B near the tranquil town of La Garita. First day activities include a fantastic Costa Rican welcome dinner, GoBeyond’s orientation, check-in, and icebreakers.

Itinerary Activities

La Carpio & Juan Sanchez Indigenous Site

1 Day

Students begin their service abroad program with a service orientation and walking tour of the San José “slum” of La Carpio. After this eye-opening introduction, students get right to work with the people of the community. While the needs of our partner, the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF), change from year to year, our projects often center on hands-on construction and infrastructure projects, as well as educational interactions with underprivileged children. In the afternoon, students bus to Quitirrisi indigenous village where they learn about indigenous culture while touring traditional grass huts, religious artifacts, and burial grounds. Students are offered the opportunity to juice sugar cane – tribal style – and participate in a traditional ceremony of blessing.

Journey Focus

Discovering Costa Rican Culture & Giving Back

Interspersed through your time spent whitewater rafting, hiking through rainforests, and discovering the raw untouched beauty of the environment, you’ll spend 50 hours of our Costa Rica high school trip giving back to local communities in coordination with our service partner, Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation.

The Humanitarian Foundation works to improve the quality of life of the most vulnerable populations in Costa Rica. In operation over 30 years, the foundation now manages more than 50 projects throughout the country, with a focus on education, community development, health care and support services for women, at-risk youth and indigenous groups.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

4 Days

A critical component to our trip, students learn about and contribute to projects serving rural schools and family centers in southern Costa Rica. Although Costa Rica – by Central American standards – is a relatively wealthy country that spends a large part of its revenue on education, the schools out in the countryside are often underserved and don’t have finances to build classrooms, provide material or give English classes. Our work in the Rio Claro area helps provide cultural exchanges, promote reading, and upgrade physical infrastructure at these new CRHF project locations.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

Fatima, one of the CRHF’s most experienced La Carpio teachers, recently moved with her family to Rio Claro, a community right on the Panama border. Since she has been working for so many years in La Carpio, she was able to make a positive impact on the children and families in this new community and has created the Family Well Being Center. With the support of GoBeyond groups, she has created a space, made furniture and provided classes for the children all year long.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

CRHF’s other new center is located at the beach town of Uvita, where Gail Nystrom – CRHF’s Director – has assumed responsibility for the Family Well Being Center, Forjando Alas program. Introduced several years ago, the program aims to educate children who live in the beach community and, at the same time, to protect the children from falling prey to the drugs, trafficking, and prostitution that tends to be prevalent in the surrounding areas. GoBeyond students help to lead activities that strengthen their self esteem and academic skills.

Itinerary Activities

Service Days in Rio Claro

(Cont.)

Students who select to lend their hands and hearts to this program need to be ready to help build, paint, draw, play, teach, offer comfort and stay flexible to change. Yet in the end, students venture on with a sense of pride for having helped some of the real people to whom Gail and the CRHF have devoted their lives. It’s all in the process of making the lives of others better, one day at a time, one person at a time.

Get Our Free Online Brochure

Full of detailed information about our journeys, staff, and FAQs for you to access anytime

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

I am a...*

Email Agreement

I agree to receive periodic emails from GoBeyond including discount offers, newsletters, and program information.

Adventure Focus

Whitewater Rafting

4 Days

A highlight for many, students have an action packed day full of fun and excitement while rafting down one of the most pristine rivers in all of Costa Rica. Rapids range from class II to class IV on this scenic river, thus all ability levels – experienced and non-experienced rafters alike – are bound to have fun. When not navigating the rapids in the river, our veteran whitewater rafting guides fill the time with hilarious boat games, river jokes, and much more.

Adventure Focus

Discovering the Rainforest

(Cont.)

Traveling to more rustic regions of Costa Rica allows students to see even more unique wildlife. When on the road, it’s not uncommon to spot insects, birds, and mammals of all different shapes and sizes. GoBeyond Costa Rica is truly a journey for nature lovers. During their jaunt down the Pacific coast, students stay in more rustic-style accommodation such as open-air huts (mosquito nets and screens provided) and ecolodges/B&Bs in the rainforest, which offer ideal home bases for wildlife viewing.

Adventure Focus

Boat Tours & Snorkeling

(Cont.)

Students have a blast while exploring the national park at Playa Ballena. Students head offshore on a boat tour exploring caverns, spotting dolphins, and snorkeling with sea turtles. If they’re lucky, students may even see whales! After this exciting excursion and a healthy Costa Rican lunch, students readjust to land then prepare for their service days in the small southern community of Rio Claro.

“ Not only did I enjoy myself, establish lifelong friendships, and explore Costa Rica, but I also felt that I made an important contribution to the places I visited. I left New York with tears in my eyes, as a trip to Costa Rica meant limited contact with my friends and family and sacrificing the comforts of home, but in time I found that the fears and the worries that had plagued me were ill-founded. I was about to embark on a journey that would prove to be the most profound two weeks of my life. ”

Brighid G.Staten Island, NY

Itinerary Activities

Indigenous Reservation & Hot Springs Visit

3 Days

On the scenic bus ride back to the Central Valley, students venture off-the-beaten-track and travel inland to visit indigenous reservations such as Rincon Ecologico Cultural Terraba. Our goal in visiting and working with the indigenous communities is to strengthen their cultural heritage by being students to the leaders and youth so that they can see how valuable their own culture is in a broader worldview. Thus, students spend ample time learning about their customs and way of life. Students also undergo small community service projects on behalf of the people. After this brief yet enlightening tour, students return to the Central Valley and settle into a beautiful ecolodge complete with natural hot springs. This tranquil and relaxing environment provides the perfect backdrop for GoBeyond’s closing program and activities.

Chat With GoBeyond Alumni

Enter your email below, and we'll send you some alumni references

Closing Activities

1 Day

The last day is always so hard! Students say goodbye to their new friends at GoBeyond. Without fail, there’s a mix of emotions – there is excitement to return home; there’s sadness to leave. On the final day of the overseas adventure travel to Costa Rica, students are transferred to the San José airport by our professional staff, checked in, then travel on to their respective homes and families. Yet the journey continues for each individual in undefinable ways. The lessons we learn, the friends we make, and the personal growth we gain through the GoBeyond Costa Rica service abroad program shape our hearts and minds for many years to come.

By Ashlyn M.

Waterfall Slide!

Hola Amigos! Today we woke up a bit later and got to go to breakfast at a recreation center where…

Is Rico: (a) the Chocolate Squisher, (b) the Chicken Guy, or (c) an FBI Agent?

TripLogs

“I was very pleased with the way GoBeyond handled any safety issues in Costa Rica by keeping the students safe and the parents informed. At no point was I worried about the safety of my child. He had a wonderful trip and learned so much about himself and serving others! He loved every minute of his experience and came home immediately asking to go on another trip!”
Jessica S. - Pelahatchie, MS

“I believe the trip has made a significant positive impact on our son's life as he is already wanting to collect soccer supplies to send to Costa Rica. As a parent, I was appreciative of the feedback cards each child and counselor wrote to him. It was amazing to see how well the counselors got to know him and his strengths and areas of growth. Thank you for providing an exceptional experience for Matt!”
Jane R. - Alexandria, VA

“It has been wonderful to see our daughter return with so many experiences in another culture. She returned with a greater appreciation of her circumstances and what she has been given. The best things about GoBeyond are the international experience provided, the ability to give back, and the organized programming.”
Randi E. - Raleigh, NC

“The best parts of a trip with GoBeyond are the positive feelings the students gain about themselves and the awareness of the world around them. ”
Cynthia V. - Concord, MA

Need More Information?

Affiliates

GoBeyond is a proud supporter of local, national, and international service organizations around the world.

During their overseas adventure travel in Costa Rica, our students have the opportunity to work closely with local people, on projects where the need is authentic and the results are long-lasting. When the service abroad program is over, we provide much needed financial help with direct donations, which helps fund projects in an ongoing way. Consider your impact…join GoBeyond this summer and make a difference!

Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation

The Humanitarian Foundation works to improve the quality of life of the most vulnerable populations in Costa Rica. In operation over 30 years, the foundation now manages more than 50 projects throughout the country, with a focus on education, community development, health care and support services for women, at-risk youth and indigenous groups.

Need To Know

Is this journey right for me?

This service abroad program is for trailblazers who want to break free of the beaten path. You’ll have the chance to see a side of Costa Rica that few people get to by traveling up and down the Pacific coast mixing adventure with authentic service work. Overseas adventure travel in Costa Rica is ideal for both the experienced traveler and people hungry for their first experience abroad. If you’re interested in a genuine experience far from the wake of tourists then this is the trip for you.

What's the group like?

There’s really no rigid mold that GoBeyond participants are cut from. Since our students come from different backgrounds all over the world, the groups end up being naturally diverse. Everyone arrives with different goals, expectations, hopes, and fears but they quickly find common ground and begin to bond. The GoBeyond environment allows team members to connect quickly and become closer friends than anyone would expect. Many students report leaving feeling as though they had known their fellow students much longer than they actually had.

Our philosophy revolves around small group sizes that are still large enough to foster a sense of community. For the overseas adventure travel in Costa Rica, we’ve found that a group size of 15 – 22 students works best. This service abroad program does not require any previous experience, skills, or language fluency – only a willingness to get involved and appreciate each incredible adventure.

Who are the staff?

GoBeyond is proud to attract and recruit the best in our field. Our summer staff consists of avid world travelers, highly qualified professionals, and fun and experienced facilitators and educators. All members of our team are dynamic, multi-talented, and passionate individuals with a devotion and commitment to the safety and experience of our students.

The average age of our summer staff is 26. Staff skills are journey specific, such as holding a maritime license in the BVIs or having a background in childcare for China. All staff are First Aid and CPR certified, and many hold advanced training certificates such as Wilderness First Responder or EMT. Along with local guides and our community service partners, the ratio of staff to students is approximately 1:5. This enables close interaction and individualized attention during the journey.

What do I need to bring?

GoBeyond students are responsible for carrying their luggage from place to place. As such, we recommend that you keep things simple and avoid overpacking. Students are given the opportunity to do laundry throughout the trip, so there’s no need to pack several weeks worth of clothing.

Our hope is that families will have minimal purchases prior to the trip, so we’ve compiled our packing lists in a way that you’ll find most of what you need in your closet at home. Around mid to late March, we make available our Pre-Trip Packet to enrolled students, which contains a detailed packing list for this year’s journey. If you’d like to see last year’s packing list as an example, you can download it here.

During the trip, students will need an emergency/travel credit or debit card in addition to personal spending cash. The credit or debit card (minimum balance of $400) is intended to cover travel costs to and from the program and any unanticipated costs that might arise such as clinic or hospital visits. While not required, if you are concerned about loss or theft, students do have the option of storing their credit or debit card with our staff during the journey.

GoBeyond will pay all major program costs while traveling and working, but there will also be opportunities for students to spend money on personal items. The most common expenses include snacks, souvenirs, and phone/internet time (calling cards, internet centers, etc.). Based on our past experience, some students will spend less and some will spend more than our recommendation ($200). Judge this amount by the spending habits of your student. Please set up boundaries for its use, as GoBeyond cannot be responsible for monitoring student spending. If you are concerned about loss or theft, students can give staff up to $150 of their spending cash to be put into safekeeping/drawn later.

Where do we stay?

GoBeyond is not a luxury journey; however, we utilize comfortable, clean, and safe accommodations during our trips. In Costa Rica, students spend most nights in local hotels, B&Bs, and quaint ecolodges. You can think of ecolodges much like standard B&Bs, yet they adhere to stronger sustainability practices and are more influenced by their natural surroundings. Examples include open air huts/cabins in the rainforest and indigenous reserves (screens and mosquito nets provided).

What do we eat?

GoBeyond’s tuition covers all meals after arrival in the host country. We strive for healthy, nutritious, and delicious meals, and serve a mixture of local and international fare (including Western). For our Costa Rica journey, we primarily eat at the hotels/lodges and local restaurants. Rice and beans is a staple in Costa Rica, so don’t be surprised if you see it frequently throughout the trip!

Note, as GoBeyond is a health-conscious program, our staff do not provide large quantities of “junk” food (i.e. sodas, chips, candy bars, large desserts, etc.). Students can always supplement our meals and snacks by shopping locally for their own items.

During the application process, families can inform us of any dietary allergies or restrictions. We are usually able to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, pescetarians, etc., as well as various food allergies. However, if your student has a severe allergy to peanuts or other common substances, please call our office to discuss the options.

Nitty Gritty

Flights

Are flights included in the tuition?

Since students join us from all over the world, the cost of transportation to and from the destination country is not included in the program tuition.

Who should we contact to book travel?

Helping to coordinate our students’ travel is of vital importance – and a mammoth task! For this reason, we strongly suggest that all families start by contacting our travel coordinator, Leah Hernandez of TRC Travel Center (T: +1.281.528.7727 or 800.329.9000 • E: leahctn68@hotmail.com). Even if you are not originating in the U.S., Leah will be able to provide options and guidance.

When should I book flights?

We suggest you wait until March 20th, and here’s why. The quality of the experience is in large part defined by the makeup of the student team, and unfortunately we can’t determine the status of a specific journey or session until we receive the appropriate number of enrollments to guarantee a great experience (which is typically no fewer than six). Therefore, unless you select a ticket fare type or flight insurance policy that allows flexibility for date modifications, refunds, or credits, we suggest that families wait until after March 20th to book their international flights.

What is the preferred itinerary for U.S.-based students?

Each year, GoBeyond works with TRC Travel Center to select a preferred itinerary to/from San Jose (SJO) via Miami (MIA). GoBeyond strongly encourages U.S.-based families to book on our recommended route, so that as many students as possible can fly together as a team. Please bear in mind, however, that GoBeyond has no control over the number of participants that choose to fly via MIA. Depending on the desires of other participants, the number of students traveling on the recommended route can vary greatly.

What about an alternate itinerary that suits us better?

Since students come from all over the U.S. and world, it is not required that students book on our preferred itinerary. For non-U.S. based students, those looking to use frequent flier miles, or others who are not booking with TRC Travel Center or on our preferred flight itinerary, please contact our office prior to booking to ensure you are arriving and departing Costa Rica at appropriate times.

Does GoBeyond provide support on travel days?

Yes. We understand that travel days can be stressful for both parents and students, so no matter what time of the day or night, our office team actively monitors and supports our participants during travel. We require students to travel with a mobile phone with domestic data capability so we can monitor their progress and communicate directly if necessary. For certain flight connections, GoBeyond also offers on-site airport assistance, yet our experience has shown that being active and available to everyone electronically is often more effective in quickly troubleshooting snags than being physically present in just one location. For this specific journey…

Preferred Itinerary (Outbound flight, MIA to SJO) – In some instances, particularly for the first session of the summer, GoBeyond has a group leader who flies with the students on the preferred itinerary at the start of the trip. When a group leader is not able to travel with the students on this outbound flight, GoBeyond will typically hire a representative for the MIA airport who is responsible for helping troubleshoot any flight/connection issues that may arise.

Preferred Itinerary (Inbound flight, SJO to MIA) – On occasion, particularly for the last session of the summer, a group leader will return to the U.S. on the preferred flight with the students. If a staff member is not able to return with the students, GoBeyond will not typically hire an in-airport representative for MIA. This is due to the lack of an on-site representative’s ability to attend to customs/immigration issues and ongoing connection coordination when they do not arrive with the students.

For more information on airport assistance, please contact our office. We will be glad to let you know what type of support we typically offer for your journey (specific plans will only be available nearer the travel date).

Can I leave a program a day or two early or arrive a day or two late?

We understand that commitments at home may necessitate a student wanting to arrive or depart from our program on days other than our standard published dates. Each scenario is unique, and while we accommodate these requests when we can, we need to plan appropriately so that we know those additional staff resources are in place to ensure a safe, well-coordinated travel experience. We don’t charge extra tuition for accommodating non-standard travel, yet we do require that parents cover the direct costs associated with any additional staff travel, off-site accommodation, and meals. Please use this form to initiate a formal request for us to consider your non-standard travel wishes and a representative will contact you to discuss possibilities.

Travel Docs & Vaccinations

Skip the stress and plan ahead

GoBeyond cannot apply for passports or visas on a student’s behalf, but we can provide the information you need to do so yourself. At the time of writing, students traveling on U.S. passports do not need a visa but must have 3+ months of validity on their passport after the entry date to Costa Rica. For the most up-to-date and thorough information, please visit travel.state.gov. Students traveling on non-U.S. passports should verify passport and visa requirements for your nationality by contacting your local Costa Rican embassy or consulate.

GoBeyond understands that families have varying opinions on vaccinations. Some greatly desire the precaution; others prefer to avoid possible side effects of certain medications such as anti-malarials. Coupled with the fact that each student has unique medical considerations known best by his or her doctor, GoBeyond does not supply medical advice. We recommend that all families refer to the expertise of the CDC (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel), their health care providers, and/or a travel clinic.

Itinerary

Living in the moment

Though the fundamentals of our journeys do not change, specific journey logistics evolve over time. It is typical for our community service partners to not choose our project areas until late spring/early summer, thus the final touches of our itineraries are not always set until then. The journey overview portions of this page should give families a basic understanding of the kinds of activities we do on the journey. We also suggest last year’s Trip Updates if you need more descriptions. For the most up-to-date information on our expected itineraries, feel free to Contact our office.

With that in mind, we encourage all participants to “live in the moment” while on the journey. Travel, even on organized trips, requires flexibility and a willingness to accept adversity and change. Your journey country may not be as efficient, orderly, and/or timely as you are use to. We hope you’ll take the bumps in stride, and enjoy the adventure!

Service Hours

Service Hours & Letters

After the completion of summer, all students (U.S. and non-U.S. students alike) receive a GoBeyond service letter reflecting their participation on the journey.* The GoBeyond service letter describes the type of service work performed, the number of hours awarded, and is printed and signed on our letterhead. Typically, our letter is accepted by most high schools/colleges as proof of community service participation. If your school needs a specific form signed or evaluation filled out, please make sure to bring this on the trip so a staff member can assist you.

* Note: Presence alone does not necessarily earn students the community service hours. GoBeyond reserves the right to deduct hours due to non-participation and/or early dismissal. Participants who work hard and participate in all journey activities will receive the full number of service hours available for their journey.

OUR 5-8 WEEK Journeys

Any consecutive programs may be joined to form one extended course. In the interim between programs, students stay with staff. The total cost is determined by combining the cost of each program and subtracting the 5% extended course discount.This discount also applies toward any trips adjoining our sister program, ActionQuest. ActionQuest and/or GoBeyond enrollment for any consecutive programs in the same summer will be considered as a single extended program in the event of withdrawal or dismissal from the trip at any time.

Financial Aid

Every year, GoBeyond awards a number of partial tuition scholarships

The financial aid budget is determined by the GoBeyond Directors and is allocated from the organization’s operating budget. Eligibility is based on a number of factors, including financial need, past academic performance, community involvement, and promise of success on the journey.

As students come from all over the world, flight and travel costs are not included at any scholarship level, nor spending money and other additional costs associated with traveling abroad (vaccinations, doctor visits, visas, etc.). If you know that you are unable to fund your experience without financial assistance, then please visit our Financial Aid pages for more information and the application.

Flights

Travel Docs & Vaccinations

Itinerary

Service Hours

Tuition

Financial Aid

Are flights included in the tuition?

Since students join us from all over the world, the cost of transportation to and from the destination country is not included in the program tuition.

Who should we contact to book travel?

Helping to coordinate our students’ travel is of vital importance – and a mammoth task! For this reason, we strongly suggest that all families start by contacting our travel coordinator, Leah Hernandez of TRC Travel Center (T: +1.281.528.7727 or 800.329.9000 • E: leahctn68@hotmail.com). Even if you are not originating in the U.S., Leah will be able to provide options and guidance.

When should I book flights?

We suggest you wait until March 20th, and here’s why. The quality of the experience is in large part defined by the makeup of the student team, and unfortunately we can’t determine the status of a specific journey or session until we receive the appropriate number of enrollments to guarantee a great experience (which is typically no fewer than six). Therefore, unless you select a ticket fare type or flight insurance policy that allows flexibility for date modifications, refunds, or credits, we suggest that families wait until after March 20th to book their international flights.

What is the preferred itinerary for U.S.-based students?

Each year, GoBeyond works with TRC Travel Center to select a preferred itinerary to/from San Jose (SJO) via Miami (MIA). GoBeyond strongly encourages U.S.-based families to book on our recommended route, so that as many students as possible can fly together as a team. Please bear in mind, however, that GoBeyond has no control over the number of participants that choose to fly via MIA. Depending on the desires of other participants, the number of students traveling on the recommended route can vary greatly.

What about an alternate itinerary that suits us better?

Since students come from all over the U.S. and world, it is not required that students book on our preferred itinerary. For non-U.S. based students, those looking to use frequent flier miles, or others who are not booking with TRC Travel Center or on our preferred flight itinerary, please contact our office prior to booking to ensure you are arriving and departing Costa Rica at appropriate times.

Does GoBeyond provide support on travel days?

Yes. We understand that travel days can be stressful for both parents and students, so no matter what time of the day or night, our office team actively monitors and supports our participants during travel. We require students to travel with a mobile phone with domestic data capability so we can monitor their progress and communicate directly if necessary. For certain flight connections, GoBeyond also offers on-site airport assistance, yet our experience has shown that being active and available to everyone electronically is often more effective in quickly troubleshooting snags than being physically present in just one location. For this specific journey…

Preferred Itinerary (Outbound flight, MIA to SJO) – In some instances, particularly for the first session of the summer, GoBeyond has a group leader who flies with the students on the preferred itinerary at the start of the trip. When a group leader is not able to travel with the students on this outbound flight, GoBeyond will typically hire a representative for the MIA airport who is responsible for helping troubleshoot any flight/connection issues that may arise.

Preferred Itinerary (Inbound flight, SJO to MIA) – On occasion, particularly for the last session of the summer, a group leader will return to the U.S. on the preferred flight with the students. If a staff member is not able to return with the students, GoBeyond will not typically hire an in-airport representative for MIA. This is due to the lack of an on-site representative’s ability to attend to customs/immigration issues and ongoing connection coordination when they do not arrive with the students.

For more information on airport assistance, please contact our office. We will be glad to let you know what type of support we typically offer for your journey (specific plans will only be available nearer the travel date).

Can I leave a program a day or two early or arrive a day or two late?

We understand that commitments at home may necessitate a student wanting to arrive or depart from our program on days other than our standard published dates. Each scenario is unique, and while we accommodate these requests when we can, we need to plan appropriately so that we know those additional staff resources are in place to ensure a safe, well-coordinated travel experience. We don’t charge extra tuition for accommodating non-standard travel, yet we do require that parents cover the direct costs associated with any additional staff travel, off-site accommodation, and meals. Please use this form to initiate a formal request for us to consider your non-standard travel wishes and a representative will contact you to discuss possibilities.

Skip the stress and plan ahead

GoBeyond cannot apply for passports or visas on a student’s behalf, but we can provide the information you need to do so yourself. At the time of writing, students traveling on U.S. passports do not need a visa but must have 3+ months of validity on their passport after the entry date to Costa Rica. For the most up-to-date and thorough information, please visit travel.state.gov. Students traveling on non-U.S. passports should verify passport and visa requirements for your nationality by contacting your local Costa Rican embassy or consulate.

GoBeyond understands that families have varying opinions on vaccinations. Some greatly desire the precaution; others prefer to avoid possible side effects of certain medications such as anti-malarials. Coupled with the fact that each student has unique medical considerations known best by his or her doctor, GoBeyond does not supply medical advice. We recommend that all families refer to the expertise of the CDC (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel), their health care providers, and/or a travel clinic.

Living in the moment

Though the fundamentals of our journeys do not change, specific journey logistics evolve over time. It is typical for our community service partners to not choose our project areas until late spring/early summer, thus the final touches of our itineraries are not always set until then. The journey overview portions of this page should give families a basic understanding of the kinds of activities we do on the journey. We also suggest last year’s Trip Updates if you need more descriptions. For the most up-to-date information on our expected itineraries, feel free to Contact our office.

With that in mind, we encourage all participants to “live in the moment” while on the journey. Travel, even on organized trips, requires flexibility and a willingness to accept adversity and change. Your journey country may not be as efficient, orderly, and/or timely as you are use to. We hope you’ll take the bumps in stride, and enjoy the adventure!

Service Hours & Letters

After the completion of summer, all students (U.S. and non-U.S. students alike) receive a GoBeyond service letter reflecting their participation on the journey.* The GoBeyond service letter describes the type of service work performed, the number of hours awarded, and is printed and signed on our letterhead. Typically, our letter is accepted by most high schools/colleges as proof of community service participation. If your school needs a specific form signed or evaluation filled out, please make sure to bring this on the trip so a staff member can assist you.

* Note: Presence alone does not necessarily earn students the community service hours. GoBeyond reserves the right to deduct hours due to non-participation and/or early dismissal. Participants who work hard and participate in all journey activities will receive the full number of service hours available for their journey.

OUR 5-8 WEEK Journeys

Any consecutive programs may be joined to form one extended course. In the interim between programs, students stay with staff. The total cost is determined by combining the cost of each program and subtracting the 5% extended course discount.This discount also applies toward any trips adjoining our sister program, ActionQuest. ActionQuest and/or GoBeyond enrollment for any consecutive programs in the same summer will be considered as a single extended program in the event of withdrawal or dismissal from the trip at any time.

Every year, GoBeyond awards a number of partial tuition scholarships

The financial aid budget is determined by the GoBeyond Directors and is allocated from the organization’s operating budget. Eligibility is based on a number of factors, including financial need, past academic performance, community involvement, and promise of success on the journey.

As students come from all over the world, flight and travel costs are not included at any scholarship level, nor spending money and other additional costs associated with traveling abroad (vaccinations, doctor visits, visas, etc.). If you know that you are unable to fund your experience without financial assistance, then please visit our Financial Aid pages for more information and the application.